What is the proper technique for maintaining a sterile field?

• A. Keep sterile items above waist level, maintain a sterile border (usually 1 inch) and avoid contamination by not turning away from field or reaching across; perform all steps using sterile technique
• B. Sterile items can be set on unsterile surfaces
• C. You can turn your back on the field briefly
• D. Contamination is allowed if you sneeze

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a sterile field means preventing contamination by keeping sterile items within a clearly defined sterile zone and handling them with aseptic technique. This involves keeping sterile items above waist level, preserving a sterile border (about one inch) around the field, and avoiding movements or actions that bring nonsterile surfaces into contact with the sterile area—such as turning away from the field or reaching across it. All steps should be performed using sterile technique to minimize risk. If contamination occurs or you suspect the field has been breached (for example, if you sneeze or accidentally turn away), the field must be reestablished with new sterile supplies.